What are Acute Stress Disorder and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?

Acute stress disorder (ASD) and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are both mental health disorders that can occur after experiencing a traumatic event. The DSM-5-TR, the diagnostic manual for mental health disorders, outlines the criteria for these conditions.

ASD is a short-term response to a traumatic event. In order to be diagnosed with ASD, an individual must have been exposed to a traumatic event and often experiences some of the following symptoms within the first month following the traumatic event:

• Intrusive thoughts or memories of the event

• Recurring dreams or flashbacks

• Avoidance of people, places, or things that are reminders of the event

• Negative changes in mood and thoughts

• Feeling detached or cut off from others

• Difficulty experiencing positive emotions

• Increased irritability or anger

• Difficulty sleeping

• Difficulty concentrating

• Increased startle response

PTSD, on the other hand, is a more long-term response to a traumatic event. In order to be diagnosed with PTSD, an individual must have been exposed to a traumatic event and must experience at least one re-experiencing symptom (such as intrusive thoughts or flashbacks), at least one avoidance symptom (such as avoiding people, places, or things related to the event), at least two arousal and reactivity symptoms (such as irritability or difficulty sleeping), and at least two cognition and mood symptoms (such as negative changes in mood or thoughts). These symptoms must be present for at least one month.

The main difference between ASD and PTSD is the length of time the symptoms last. ASD symptoms typically last for a shorter period of time, whereas PTSD symptoms can last for months or even years. Additionally, ASD does not necessarily lead to PTSD, but it can be a risk factor for developing the disorder.

It is important to seek professional help if you are experiencing symptoms of ASD or PTSD. Both disorders can be treated with therapy and medication, and seeking help can improve your quality of life and help you cope with the effects of the traumatic event.